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Partial Hospitalization Programs for Substance Use Disorders

By Updated July 15, 2026Alcohol Rehab, Addiction Recovery Tips, Addiction Treatment, Drug Rehab, Staying Sober
Partial Hospitalization Programs as shown by a group of adults sits in a group therapy session during their Partial Hospitalization Program addiction treatment.

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is a structured, nonresidential level of behavioral healthcare. Participants typically attend treatment for multiple hours on several days each week and return home or to recovery housing afterward.

Who might be considered for PHP?

PHP may be considered when a person needs more structure than routine outpatient care but does not require 24-hour residential monitoring. Placement should follow an assessment of withdrawal risk, medical and psychiatric needs, safety, functioning, living environment and available support.

Services a PHP may provide

Programs differ. Services may include individual and group therapy, medication management, substance-use education, relapse-prevention planning, family sessions and coordination with medical providers. Confirm the actual schedule, credentials and services directly rather than relying on the program label.

PHP compared with other care

Residential treatment includes lodging and round-the-clock structure. Intensive outpatient treatment generally involves fewer weekly hours than PHP. Standard outpatient care is usually less intensive. A person may step up or down as needs change.

Questions to ask before enrolling

  • Who completes the assessment and how is placement decided?
  • Is the program licensed for the advertised services?
  • How are medical or psychiatric emergencies handled?
  • Which services and professionals are included?
  • What will insurance be billed and what could I owe?
  • How is discharge and continuing care planned?

Frequently asked questions

Is PHP inpatient treatment?

No. PHP is generally nonresidential, although someone may separately live in recovery housing.

Does insurance cover PHP?

Some plans cover medically necessary PHP, but network, authorization and cost-sharing rules vary. Verify the specific plan and provider.

Can PHP manage severe withdrawal?

A person at risk for severe or complicated withdrawal may need a medically monitored setting instead. Clinical assessment is essential.

How long does PHP last?

Duration depends on clinical need, progress, attendance, coverage and the continuing-care plan.

Sources

Last reviewed: July 10, 2026. This page is educational and does not replace an individualized assessment or medical advice.

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Reviewed By

Contributor

  • Noah Fischler
    Recovery Perspective Reviewer:

    Noah Fischler has been in recovery since 2018 following several years of heroin and meth addiction. He brings lived experience from both sides of the recovery process, having worked directly with individuals in crisis as a behavioral health technician and now in business development within the treatment field. Noah is an ISSA-certified personal trainer who integrates fitness and resilience-building into long-term recovery support.

     

Contributor

  • Amy Coblentz
    Clinical Reviewer:

    Amy Coblentz, RN with over 23 years of diverse clinical experience across medical-surgical nursing, home health, and women’s health. She currently serves as a Clinical Nurse Coordinator, providing clinical leadership, staff mentorship, and care coordination, and holds active ACLS, BLS, and NRP certifications.

     

Review scope: Admissions and clinical review for educational accuracy and clarity.

Last reviewed: July 10, 2026


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